We’ve known about the value of having external space at home for a long time. In fact, it is mandatory on most projects, especially in big cities. We saw the importance even more during the covid pandemic; it was an easier time for people who could enjoy the outdoors by stepping into the garden or on to a balcony. We want to focus specifically on the latter today and what you can do in terms of designs. Then, if you want help with residential architecture in London, you can talk to us.

Styles

Firstly, it is important to consider that there are a number of different options for the style of a balcony. The most common is projecting. Here the balconies extend beyond the facade of the building, making them open to the elements on three sides. They can offer the best connection to the outside world, but have the drawback of extra exposure to the elements.

A second option is recessed balconies. They are the inverse of projecting designs. Here, only one side is open. They don’t go beyond the facade of the building. While you compromise on connection, you get more shelter from the elements. As a result, you typically have what feels like an outdoor room.

Designers also have the option to create a semi-recessed balcony. This design combines elements of the other two styles, so you get part of it extending beyond the facade and part behind it. You can be creative here, but it can be tough to get the designs right.

There are two other styles you can also consider. One is a winter garden, where you have a balcony with glazing you can open and close as necessary. The final one is a Juliette balcony. There is no outside space here, but the design can let you open up a living area with patio doors to connect to the outside.

Key things to think about

Whether it is residential architecture in London or buildings anywhere else in the world, you need to look at some key things when you are designing balconies. It will help you get the most from the spaces.

For starters, think about accessibility. You need to ensure the balcony has a suitable threshold to allow people to access it with ease. Avoid things like high steps that would make it harder for people with limited mobility to safely get out on the balcony. Look at the doors too, ensuring they will allow access without a big loss of space on either side.

Next, you have to think about privacy. You have to consider the distance between balconies here and the proximity to neighbouring buildings. Consider overlooking too. If it is larger balconies, you may need to look at subdivision with walls or privacy screens.

You also need to think about the broader impact. For example, if you have projecting balconies, it can make space below them cooler. That can be ideal for bedrooms, but can cause issues with lack of light in living rooms. If there is a problem with daylight, whatever style of balcony it is, you should design it to get more light into the property. Think about the thermal impact too; you don’t want to create cold bridges.

Another important factor to plan for is rainwater. You don’t want water to be flowing into the property. You also don’t want the balcony to become a pool or water to be pouring off the sides and causing problems below. It is important to have a suitable system to manage the water. Crucially, you need solutions to prevent blockages if you have a shared system.

Finally, you must think about safety. There are a number of vital factors here, including the balustrades, non-slip flooring, and the use of materials that are not combustible. The most important thing is to make sure people can’t fall and objects can’t drop off the balconies.

Talk to us about residential architecture in London

Balconies can be a wonderful part of buildings, whether it is high rise towers or smaller blocks. They have a massive impact on the design and aesthetics of the facade. You need to consider the exact requirements, then work with the building codes and regulations to ensure your designs are appropriate.

If you are designing a property and want some help with aspects like balcony design, you can rely on us. In fact, we strive to create the most impressive residential architecture in London. Just have a look at our projects to see what we can do, including some really beautiful balconies.